Breeding Kennel Technician

About the role

Guiding Eyes for the Blind is dedicated to connecting exceptional dogs with individuals seeking greater independence. We breed, raise, and train exceptional guide dogs to empower people who are blind or visually impaired.

Responsibilities

• Provide a high level of animal husbandry care including bathing, feeding, check overs, nail clipping, ear cleaning, and medicating according to established policies and procedures.
• Perform basic breeding procedures including progression evaluation and specimen collections, semen collection and evaluation, natural and vaginal inseminations.
• Perform assigned medical treatments, specimen collections and diagnostic tests (blood, urine, stool collection and analysis, heartworm test, brucellosis test, vaginal smears, semen analysis, etc.) according to standard procedures.
• Clean and maintain kennel facilities, equipment and assigned grounds according to established protocols.
• Record and track behavioral observations using databases and spreadsheets to monitor puppy progress.
• Effectively work with pups in early obedience and socialization.
• Provide obedience, socialization and exercise support to dogs and puppies in the Breeding Kennel.
• Maintain accurate and timely records utilizing point of entry system.
• Work with Volunteers providing support, guidance, and recognition.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High degree of competency in all Kennel Technician duties; experience caring for dogs in a kennel, Veterinarian's office, or training environment.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to teach and explain basic behavioral concepts to Staff and Volunteers.
• Ability to accurately assess situations and make quick, sound judgements independently when it comes to animal husbandry.
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities.
• Demonstrates an understanding of dog behavior and puppy development, including the ability to recognize and support healthy behaviors and appropriately address concerns using positive methods.
• Able to work daily with accelerant, bleach and other cleaning agents.
• Reliability, a high level of integrity and punctuality are essential.
• This is an essential personnel position so flexibility in availability is a must; including weekends, evenings and holidays are required as needed.
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office programs; Salesforce savvy a plus.
• Physically able to lift and control 65 – 75 lb. dogs, carry portable dog crates and pens weighing up to 30 pounds as well as withstand up to two hours of repetitive bending, stooping, kneeling, and squatting on concrete surface.

Benefits

Competitive and generous healthcare (Medical/Dental/Vision), 403(b), Life Insurance, Paid Time Off and Holidays.

Equal Opportunity Employer

M/F, D/V